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Gerald Gower Obituary
Gerald (Jerry) W. Gower, Lt. Col., USA (Ret), age 71, of San Antonio, TX, died on Friday, November 11, 2011 after a 34 year struggle with serious health issues. He was born in Pt. Arthur, TX on September 13, 1940 to James L. and Carrie Boone Gower. After graduation from Lamar University in Beaumont, TX with a BS in Biology, Jerry was accepted at the UT Dental Branch in Houston, TX where he earned hid DDS in 1965. Jerry then entered the US Army on active duty as a Captain and was stationed in Japan. His next tour was spent in Vietnam. During that tour, Jerry was promoted to Major and received a Bronze Star Medal, Meritirious Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/4 Bronze Stars, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry w/ Palm. Upon his return from Vietnam, Jerry was stationed at the Academy of Health Sciences at Ft. Sam Houston, TX. During that assignment he received his MHA Degree in Hospital Administration from the Baylor University Program. Later assignments included Ft. Benning, GA and Ft. Carson, CO. Jerry was promoted to LTC in 1972 and medically retired in 1977. Jerry leaves behind his wife of 52 years, Betty, and their three children: Mark, Andrew, and Kristine; and five grandchildren: Ariel, Annie, Ziyad, Aubrey, and Morgan. Other family members include his brother, Robert; his sister Marilyn (Dec); and in laws: Kim Gower, Hazel May, and Rosemary and Jesse Philmon, and Janice Gower. The "Big Chief" will be missed and remembered by all his family for his fearlessness, special humor, and generous nature. Jerry was cremated, and a military service and a celebration of life is planned for January 27th at 10:30 a.m. at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery. Afterwards, friends will be welcomed to the family residence. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity.
neptune society
8910 Bandera Rd
Suite 301
San Antonio, TX 78250
210 647-1752
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Memories and Condolences
for Gerald Gower
4 Entries
Senator Leticia Van de Putte
February 2, 2012
Dear Gower Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathies on the loss of your beloved. There are never any right words to express how deeply sad I am for the pain your family is enduring at this difficult time.
Although I did not have the honor and pleasure of knowing him, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs and Military Installations, I am sincerely thankful for his valiant service in defense of our rights and freedom.
His commitment to family, friends, our community, and to serving our great nation leaves a wonderful legacy. May the love and the wonderful memories you shared with him help you when you need it most. He will never be forgotten, and your family will be remembered in my prayers.
Carolyn Bigler Hebert
February 2, 2012
I remember Jerry as being a very handsome young man in high school and extremely friendly. His obit will be posted in our class website soon. I am the webmaster. Mel Borel sent it to me today, ground hog day. I wish you would/could have communicated with me these last few years. My condolences go out to your family. Carolyn Bigler Hebert - TJ class of '58
Pat Sabo Oldham
January 28, 2012
Please note: Thank you for calling and if I could have been there I would have but circumstances beyond my control kept me at home. Jerry will always be a fond memory of some great high school days. God be there for each of you at this time.
January 22, 2012
The best friend I had in school. I wish we could have been closer later, but we just lost track, I guess. All the memories I have of us are good, and will stay with me for life. To betty and family, my heat felt condolences. I will remember Jerry with fondness and admeration always. Jerrys buddy, Steve Feltman
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Neptune Society - San Antonio8910 Bandera Rd Suite 301, San Antonio, TX 78250
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